The Seattle Sounders host the San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday (7:30 p.m. PT; JOEtv, YouTube TV, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM; TICKETS) in Week 9 MLS action. Here are three matchups to watch, presented by Toyota.
Gustav Svensson vs. Magnus Eriksson
The Swedish derby in midfield will go a long way toward determining the outcome of Wednesday’s fixture. Svensson is a nightmare for creative midfielders, as his dogged defending and looming presence disrupts their rhythm. In San Jose’s three-man midfield, Eriksson will be tasked with releasing the wingers into space and combining with forward Danny Hoesen. Eriksson has one goal, one assist and 11 key passes in his last three starts, but he’ll have a tough time maintaining that run of form at CenturyLink Field. Not only can Svensson shut down his fellow countryman’s offensive contributions, but his composure in possession will keep Eriksson honest defensively.
Cristian Roldan vs. Jackson Yueill
One element of the Sounders game model that has flown under the radar this season is the commitment to counter-pressing. Yes, the team can create chances from sustained, meticulous possession and lightning quick counterattacks. But when they turn the ball over, the midfielders’ insatiable desire to close down opponents and immediately win back possession has been a game changer.
Enter Roldan.
Seattle’s No. 7 is a two-way force in midfield. His fight and fiery disposition make him a nightmare for opposing teams. Cliché’s aside, he has an astute understanding of soccer’s intricacies, having studied under the likes of Osvaldo Alonso and Gonzalo Pineda. Everything the Earthquakes try to do in possession flows through young midfield metronome Yueill. If Roldan can harass him when he’s on the ball, their attack will break down before it can really get started.
Kim Kee-hee vs. Danny Hoesen
If the Earthquakes do establish a foothold in midfield, the offensive onus falls on Hoesen’s shoulders. A dynamic, clever forward with ridiculous shooting technique, the Dutch attacker has cemented his place in San Jose Head Coach MatÃas Almeyda’s plans with three goals in his last three matches.
Kim’s performances in wins over Toronto FC, the Colorado Rapids, FC Cincinnati and Real Salt Lake have shown that he can dominate a diverse array of No. 9s. His balance, defensive technique and anticipation will be put to the test on Wednesday, as Hoesen’s shooting technique is so clean and powerful that he can score from any distance. The South Korean center back will need to be on his toes against San Jose because, if Hoesen can create separation, he’ll unleash venomous, knuckling shots on Stefan Frei’s goal.
